NEW HARTFORD, N.Y. — Police are investigating two attempted robberies that unfolded within minutes of each other Wednesday evening in the Washington Mills area, prompting a coordinated law-enforcement response.
According to the New Hartford Police Department, officers were first dispatched around 7 p.m. following a 911 call reporting an attempted robbery at the 7‑Eleven on Kellogg Road. While officers were en route, dispatchers received additional information indicating a second attempted robbery had just occurred nearby at McDonald’s.
What Police Say Happened
Investigators said a male suspect entered the 7-Eleven and displayed what appeared to be a weapon while attempting to steal money from a store employee. The suspect fled the scene before officers arrived and was reported to have moved toward the McDonald’s location shortly afterward.
At the McDonald’s, police say the same suspect again threatened the presence of a weapon while attempting to commit a robbery. It remains unclear whether any property was taken during either incident.
Search and Investigation Efforts
Following the reports, officers canvassed the area and requested assistance from the New Hartford Police K9 Unit to track the suspect’s movements. The department’s Criminal Investigation Division is also assisting with evidence collection, witness interviews, and review of any available surveillance footage from nearby businesses.
Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported at either location, and employees were not physically harmed during the encounters.
Ongoing Case
As of Thursday, no arrests had been announced, and police have not released a suspect description beyond confirming the individual was male and displayed a weapon during both incidents. Investigators continue to follow leads to determine whether the same suspect was responsible for both attempted robberies.
Police are urging anyone who was in the area at the time or who may have seen suspicious activity near Kellogg Road or the surrounding businesses to contact the New Hartford Police Department.
Conclusion
The back-to-back attempted robberies have raised safety concerns among local businesses in Washington Mills. While no one was injured, police say the investigation remains active and are asking the public to remain alert and report any information that could help identify the suspect. Updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
